After 40 years of living with Chronic Juvenile Arthritis and the last 27 years of thoroughly enjoying being chief supporter for my husband and son's sporting events, I've finally found a sport that can facilitate my CAN DO approach to life and making the best of a bad lot with a rheumatoid disease.

So now it's my turn! I will be attempting to cycle 3km as part of my family triathlon team, at the Superhero Triathlon in Windsor on 18th August 2018. Hoping for a good head start with Paul taking on the swim and then a sprint finish from Tom in the run. There is no speed involved in my cycling, I will be happy just to make the distance!

This event would not have been possible for me without the support and commitment from Conwy Freewheelers Adapted Cycling Club. They assist with my training at Eirias Park RaceTrack every Sunday and are lending me the 4 wheel fixed gear bike for the event. They have a fantastic range of bikes, trikes and hand bikes, there is undoubtedly a bike option out there for everyone. The biggest hurdle is finding the courage to turn up for your first trial session. I'm so glad I did!

I would like to try and split my fundraising efforts between the Conwy Freewheelers Adapted Cycling Club and National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS).

Donating from this page, the funds will go to Conwy Freewheelers. If you prefer to support NRAS, please visit this link.

https://www.justgiving.com/emma-para-tri

Those that know me well, will know that this is a massive challenge for me, even though a short distance to ride.

Living with a rheumatoid disease is a painful battle all day long ( and often through the night) just to function through the basics of walking, dressing, eating etc. But, approached with a smile and the support of family, friends, colleagues and a fantastic team of medics, life is good!

ps: Although I say life is all about what you CAN DO, I have discovered something on this venture that I definitely can't do...wear lycra!!